KEY POINTS:
Highlanders captain Josh Blackie is the latest high-profile player to hit rugby's exit carousel.
The 27-year-old flanker has signed a deal to play in Japan after more than 55 Super matches, 73 games for Otago and stints with the Junior All Blacks and national sevens sides.
Blackie's departure is the second major loss for the area after All Black tighthead prop Carl Hayman revealed he had signed a lucrative deal to play for the Newcastle club in England after the World Cup.
"I've certainly enjoyed my time with Otago and the Highlanders and I'll cherish the memories and the people from my career in Dunedin.
"But this was too good an opportunity to turn down," said Blackie.
Otago chief executive Russell Gray said neither his union nor New Zealand could match the overseas clubs' offers.
All Blacks Aaron Mauger, Chris Jack, Byron Kelleher, Hayman and Sam Tuitupou have all announced they are going this year. Anton Oliver is also leaving but may not play overseas.
Other internationals off contract this year, such as Luke McAlister, Rico Gear, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Clarke Dermody, Marty Holah, Ma'a Nonu, Ali Williams and Doug Howlett, are thinking about overseas offers or are being targeted by European clubs.
National skipper Richie McCaw has indicated he will sign on for another term.
